Backyard Builders Program: Expanding Affordable Housing in Long Beach

Affordable housing is a pressing issue in many urban areas, and Long Beach is no exception. To address this challenge, the city has introduced the Backyard Builders Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering homeowners to contribute to the solution. This program offers financial assistance and expert guidance to help property owners build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on their land, providing affordable housing options for income-qualified individuals. In this article, we'll delve into the details of the Backyard Builders Program, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how you can get involved.

What is the Backyard Builders Program?

The Backyard Builders Program is a comprehensive initiative by the City of Long Beach designed to assist ten eligible property owners in financing, designing, permitting, and constructing an ADU on their property. In exchange, homeowners agree to rent out the newly built ADU to income-qualified tenants at an affordable rate for a minimum of five years.

Objectives of the Program

• Increase Affordable Housing: Address the shortage of affordable housing units in Long Beach.
• Empower Homeowners: Provide resources and support to homeowners interested in building ADUs.
• Enhance Community Development: Foster a sense of community by integrating affordable housing within existing neighborhoods.

Benefits for Homeowners

Participating in the Backyard Builders Program offers numerous advantages for homeowners.

1. No-Interest Financing

Eligible homeowners can receive a loan of up to $250,000 with 0% interest. This loan covers costs associated with planning, permitting, and constructing the ADU.

Loan Conditions:

• The homeowner must rent the ADU to income-qualified tenants at an affordable rate.
• The rental agreement must be maintained for a minimum of five years.
• If the terms are not met, the interest rate may increase to 3%.

2. Free Project Management & Technical Assistance

A city-appointed project manager will assist homeowners throughout the entire process.

Services Include:

• Guidance in selecting architects, builders, planners, and contractors.
• Assistance with obtaining necessary permits.
• Support during the design and construction phases.

3. Additional Advantages

• Revenue Generation: Earn additional income through renting the ADU.
• Property Value Increase: Enhance the market value of your property.
• Community Contribution: Play a vital role in providing affordable housing in your neighborhood.

Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. It is a self-contained living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. ADUs can be:

• Detached: Separate from the main dwelling.
• Attached: Connected to the main dwelling.
• Garage Conversion: Transforming an existing garage into a living space.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

• Property Owners in Long Beach: Must own a property within the city limits.
• Owner-Occupied Properties: The homeowner must live on the property where the ADU will be built.
• Property with Less Than Four Units: Properties with more than four existing units are not eligible.

Tenant Eligibility

• Income Qualifications: Tenants must earn 80% or less of the Los Angeles County median income.
  • For Example:
    • Individual: Earning up to $77,700.
    • Family of Two: Earning up to $88,800.
• Rental Rate Guidelines: Rent must be set at an affordable rate as defined by the program guidelines.

How to Apply

Application Period

The preliminary application period ends on November 30, 2024. Applications will be reviewed after the deadline, and early submissions do not impact the selection process.

Application Process

1. Visit the Program Webpage: Access the application form at Backyard Builders Program.
2. Complete the Application: Provide all required information accurately.
3. Submit Before Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by November 30, 2024.

Information Sessions

Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to attend one of the upcoming information sessions to learn more about the program.

Schedule

• Wednesday, October 9, 2024
  • Time: 6 PM – 7:30 PM
  • Format: Virtual Zoom Webinar
• Saturday, October 19, 2024
  • Time: 10 AM – 11:30 AM
  • Location: Cesar Chavez Park – 401 Golden Avenue, Long Beach
• Thursday, October 24, 2024
  • Time: 6 PM – 7:30 PM
  • Location: Long Beach Energy Resources Auditorium – 2400 East Spring Street, Long Beach

Note: Translation services will be provided in Spanish and other languages upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Eligible to Apply for the Program?

Homeowners in Long Beach who own and occupy a property with less than four existing units and are interested in building an ADU to rent to income-qualified tenants.

2. Which Type of Property Must I Have?

Your property must be located within Long Beach city limits, be owner-occupied, and have less than four existing residential units.

3. Who Can Live in the ADU?

Income-qualified individuals or families earning 80% or less of the Los Angeles County median income.

4. How Much Can I Charge for Rent?

Rent must be set at an affordable rate as defined by the program guidelines, ensuring it remains accessible to low-income tenants.

5. Will I Be Able to Cover My Loan Payment with My Rental Income?

Yes, the program is designed so that rental income can cover loan payments, especially when renting to recipients of Long Beach’s housing choice voucher program.

6. Could I Build the ADU Myself?

While self-building is possible, you must comply with all city regulations and obtain the necessary permits. The city-appointed project manager can assist with guidance.

7. Does the ADU Have to Be Completed Within a Specified Time Period?

Yes, the ADU must be completed within a timeline specified in the program guidelines.

8. I Have Already Started Building an ADU. Can I Still Apply for the Program?

Projects already underway may not qualify. Contact the program specialist for clarification.

Contact Information

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact:

Kelli Pezzelle

Community Program Specialist

• Phone: 562.570.7073
• Email: CD-ADULoan@longbeach.gov

Recent Developments and News

Pilot Program Insights

The Backyard Builders Program is a pilot initiative using one-time funding to support as many as ten homeowners in building ADUs. The program reflects Long Beach's commitment to increasing affordable housing options and supporting homeowners.

Statements from City Officials:

• Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized Long Beach's leadership in ADU production and the importance of making housing more accessible.
• The city aims to make the process of building ADUs as straightforward as possible for homeowners.

Community Feedback

Advocacy Group Perspectives:

• Organizations like Long Beach Residents Empowered (LiBRE) appreciate the initiative but advocate for extended tenant protections and relocation assistance.

Potential Program Improvements:

• Suggestions include lengthening the affordable rental period and providing more robust support for low-income renters.

Conclusion

The Backyard Builders Program presents a unique opportunity for Long Beach homeowners to contribute to the community while reaping personal benefits. By participating, you can:

• Enhance Your Property: Add value and functionality to your home.
• Generate Income: Earn rental income with favorable loan terms.
• Support Affordable Housing: Play a crucial role in addressing housing shortages.

Take Action Today

• Attend an Information Session: Gain a deeper understanding of the program.
• Apply Before November 30, 2024: Don't miss the application deadline.
• Spread the Word: Encourage others who might be interested.

By building an ADU through the Backyard Builders Program, you're not just investing in your property—you're investing in the future of Long Beach.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official program guidelines and contact the program specialist for the most accurate and up-to-date information.